Electric lighting device

ABSTRACT

Electric lighting devices are described having a candle body with an upper surface coupled to a sidewall. A flame element is disposed entirely outside of the candle body and include one or more magnets or a ferrous material. The flame element is supported above the upper surface by a support member that extends upwardly from the upper surface and terminates at a first end disposed within the flame element. This allows the flame element some degree of movement about the support member that combined with a light source configured to illuminate a surface of the flame element creates a flickering flame effect. The device can also include a drive mechanism such as an electromagnet that generates an electromagnetic field that interacts with the magnets of the flame element to thereby cause movement of the flame element.

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application havingSer. No. 62/275,391 filed on Jan. 6, 2016, and also claims priority toU.S. provisional application having Ser. No. 62/367,366, filed on Jul.27, 2016. These and all other referenced extrinsic materials areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Where a definitionor use of a term in a reference that is incorporated by reference isinconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein,the definition of that term provided herein is deemed to be controlling.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention is electric lighting devices.

BACKGROUND

The following description includes information that may be useful inunderstanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any ofthe information provided herein is prior art or relevant to thepresently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically orimplicitly referenced is prior art.

Various electric lights are known in the art. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No.8,132,936 to Patton et al. U.S. Pat. No. 8,070,319 to Schnuckle et al.,U.S. Pat. No. 7,837,355 to Schnuckle et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,261,455 toSchnuckle et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,159,994 to Schnuckle et al., US2011/0127914 to Patton et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,350,720 to Jaworski etal.; US 2005/0285538 to Jaworski et al. (publ. December 2005); U.S. Pat.No. 7,481,571 to Bistritzky et al.; US 2008/0031784 to Bistritzky et al.(publ. February 2008); US 2006/0125420 to Boone et al. (publ. June2006); US 2007/0127249 to Medley et al. (publ. June 2007); US2008/0150453 to Medley et al. (publ. June 2008); US 2005/0169666 toPorchia, et al. (publ. August 2005); U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,668 to Porchia,et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,824,627 to Michaels, et al.; US 2006/0039835 toNottingham et al. (publ. February 2006); US 2008/0038156 to Jaramillo(publ. February 2008); US 2008/0130266 to DeWitt et al. (publ. June2008); US 2012/0024837 to Thompson (publ. February 2012); US2011/0134628 to Pcstl et al. (publ. June 2011); US 2011/0027124 to Albecet al. (publ. February 2011); US 2012/0020052 to McCavit et al. (publ.January 2012); US 2012/0093491 to Browder et al. (publ. April 2012); andUS 2014/0218903 to Sheng. All publications identified herein areincorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individualpublication or patent application were specifically and individuallyindicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use ofa term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to thedefinition of that term provided herein, the definition of that termprovided herein applies and the definition of that term in the referencedoes not apply.

Thus, there is still a need for improved electric candles and otherlighting devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and methods inwhich a flame element of an electric lighting device is disposedentirely outside of an enclosure and is mounted such that the flameelement may move with respect to the enclosure. Among other advantages,this allows the hole in the enclosure's top surface to be smaller oreliminated entirely. In some embodiments, a separate aperture in the topsurface may be needed for light to shine on to the flame element from alight source disposed within the enclosure.

Electric lighting devices of the inventive subject matter comprise acandle body having a drive mechanism and light source, a flame element,and support member for the flame element that is disposed outside of thecandle body. In such embodiments, the flame element is able to movefreely about a point where the flame element rests on or couples to thesupport member, which gives the appearance of a flickering flame whenlight shines on the flame-shaped portion of the flame element.

Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventivesubject matter will become more apparent from the following detaileddescription of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanyingdrawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-section view of one embodiment of an electric lightingdevice.

FIG. 2 is a cross-section view of another embodiment of an electriclighting device.

FIG. 3 is a cross-section view of another embodiment of an electriclighting device.

FIG. 4 is a cross-section view of another embodiment of an electriclighting device.

FIGS. 5A-5B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 6A-6B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 7A-7B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 8A-8B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 9A-9B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively, ofanother embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 10A-10B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively,of another embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 11A-11B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively,of another embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 12A-12B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively,of another embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 13A-13B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively,of another embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 14A-14B are a cross-section view and enlarged view, respectively,of another embodiment of an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 15A-15B are an exploded view and perspective view, respectively ofone embodiment of a flame element and support member.

FIGS. 16A-16C are a side view, a cross-section view and a perspectiveview, respectively, of another embodiment of a flame element.

FIGS. 17A-17C are a side view, a cross-section view and a perspectiveview, respectively, of another embodiment of a flame element.

FIGS. 18A-18C are a front view, a cross-section view, and a back,perspective view, respectively of another embodiment of a flame elementand support member.

FIGS. 19A-19C are a side view, a front view, and a hack, perspectiveview, respectively of another embodiment of a flame element and supportmember.

FIGS. 20A-20C are a cross-section view, an enlarged view, and aschematic, respectively, of another embodiment of a flame element andsupport member.

FIGS. 21A-21C are various cross-section views of another embodiment ofan electric lighting device.

FIGS. 22A-22B are cross-section views of another embodiment of anelectric lighting device.

FIGS. 23A-23B are cross-section views of another embodiment of anelectric lighting device.

FIGS. 24A-24B are cross-section views of another embodiment of anelectric lighting device.

FIGS. 25A-25B are a side view and cross-section view, respectively, ofone embodiment of a housing and support member.

FIGS. 26A-26B are a side view and cross-section view, respectively, ofone embodiment of a housing and support member.

FIGS. 27A-27B are a side view and cross-section view, respectively, ofone embodiment of a housing and support member.

FIGS. 28A-28B are a side view and cross-section view, respectively, ofone embodiment of a housing and support member.

FIGS. 29A-29B are a side view and cross-section view, respectively, ofone embodiment of a housing and support member.

FIGS. 30A-30C are schematics illustrating centers of gravity fordifferent configurations of flame elements.

FIG. 31 is a schematic showing exemplary dimensions for rotation of oneembodiment of a flame element.

FIGS. 32A-32B are perspective and cross-section views of a schematic ofone embodiment of a flame element.

FIGS. 33A-33B are perspective and cross-section views of a schematic ofone embodiment of a flame element.

FIGS. 34A-34B are perspective and cross-section views of a schematic ofone embodiment of a flame element.

FIGS. 35A-35B are perspective and cross-section views of a schematic ofone embodiment of a flame element.

FIGS. 36A-36C are various views of another embodiment of an electriclighting device.

FIG. 37 is a bottom, perspective view of another embodiment of a flameelement for an electric lighting device.

FIGS. 38A-38B are a bottom, perspective view and a cross-section view,respectively, of another embodiment of a flame element for an electriclighting device.

FIG. 39 is a cross-section view of one embodiment of an electriclighting device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following discussion provides many example embodiments of theinventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a singlecombination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter isconsidered to include all possible combinations of the disclosedelements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and asecond embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subjectmatter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A,B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

This application describes a number of different embodiments of electriclighting devices comprising a housing that may be shaped like a pillar,taper, or other type of wax candle with a flame element mounted entirelyoutside of the candle body such that the flame element may move withrespect to the housing and support member, while eliminating a hole inthe top surface through which a flame element may extend that is foundin prior art devices. Embodiments described in this application enabledifferent manufacturing techniques to be employed to create the deviceand reduce the risk of liquid entering the device (such as byhermetically sealing the housing), while providing a realistic flameeffect and desired level of functionality when the electric lightingdevice is assembled.

FIGS. 1-2 illustrates one embodiment of an electric lighting device 100having an outer housing 102 with an upper surface 104 coupled to asidewall 106. An elongated rod or support member 108 extends upwardlyfrom the upper surface 104 of the device's outer housing 102, andterminates at a first end 109 disposed away from the upper surface 104.The device has a circuit hoard (PCB) disposed beneath the upper surfaceof the device's housing, with a battery compartment preferably disposedbeneath the PCB. Although it is contemplated that the coil for anelectromagnet can be disposed directly on the PCB, in other embodiments,the coil can be disposed on the support member.

Device 100 further includes a flame element 110 that is disposedentirely outside of the outer housing 102. The flame element 110comprises one or more magnets 112 that are coupled to or embedded withinthe flame element 110. Preferably, the one or more magnets 112 arelocated within a lower portion of the flame element 110, as shown inFIG. 1. The one or more magnets 112 or other ferrous material may becoupled to, and is preferably embedded in the flame element 110. The oneor more magnets can be placed anywhere on the flame element, but arepreferably placed at the bottom portion.

In some contemplated embodiments, the flame element 110 comprises ahollow interior portion 116 and a projection 118 that extends into thehollow interior portion 116. In such embodiments, the projection 118 ispreferably sized and dimensioned to rest within a recess, notch ordepression 111 at the first end 109 of the support member 108. Thisadvantageously allows the flame element 110 to rest on and be supportedby the support member 108 while allowing for movement of the flameelement 110 about the support member 108.

Device 100 can also include an electromagnet 114 that comprises a coilof wire and a signal generator to thereby create an electromagneticfield in the vicinity of the flame element 110 that interacts with theone or more magnets 112 and thereby causes movement of the flame element110 about the support member 108. It is especially preferred that theelectromagnet 114 is disposed on a circuit board and positioned withinthe housing 102 beneath the upper surface 104. In some contemplatedembodiments, the coil forming the electromagnet 114 can be disposedbeneath the upper surface 104 of the device's housing 102. In othercontemplated embodiments, the coil can be disposed at the first end ofthe support member above the one or more magnets and within the flameelement when the flame element is coupled to the support member.

As shown in FIG. 2, a light source 122 can be disposed within the outerhousing 102, and configured to emit light upwardly through an aperture126 in the upper surface 104 to thereby emit light on to the flameelement 110. Preferably, the light source 122 and one or more lenses 124are mounted to a circuit board 120, along with the electromagnet 114.The electromagnetic field 126 interacts with the one or more magnets 112and thereby causes movement of the flame element 110. In contrast toFIG. 1, the coil 114 of FIG. 2 is placed directly under the diameter ofthe magnets 112. With respect to the remaining numerals in FIG. 2, thesame considerations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 1apply.

FIGS. 3-4 illustrate alternative embodiments of device 100. For example,in FIG. 3, device 300 comprises a coil of the electromagnet 314 having asmaller radius than the coil shown in FIGS. 1-2. FIG. 4 illustrates analternative embodiment of device 400, in which the electromagnet 414comprises angled coils. With respect to the remaining numerals in eachof FIGS. 3 and 4, the same considerations for like components with likenumerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate another embodiment of an electric lighting device500, in which the flame element 510 has a pointed projection 518configured to rest within a recessed area or indentation 511 of thefirst end 509 of the support member 508. With respect to the remainingnumerals in each of FIGS. 5A-5B, the same considerations for likecomponents with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate another embodiment of an electric lighting device600, in which the flame element 610 has a pointed projection 618 similarto FIGS. 5A-5B, while the recessed area or indentation 611 of the firstend 609 of the support member 608 has a semi-circular shape. Withrespect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 6A-6B, the sameconsiderations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate another embodiment of an electric lighting device700, in which the first end 709 of the support member 708 has an upwardprojection and the hollow interior portion 716 of the flame element 710has a flat upper portion at which the projection of the first end 709contacts forming a pivot point. With respect to the remaining numeralsin each of FIGS. 7A-7B, the same considerations for like components withlike numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate another embodiment of an electric lighting device800, in which the first end 809 of the support member 808 also has anupward projection. In contrast to device 700, the hollow interiorportion 816 of the flame element 810 has a curved upper portion defininga recessed area at which the projection of the first end 809 contacts toform a pivot point. With respect to the remaining numerals in each ofFIGS. 8A-8B, the same considerations for like components with likenumerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate another embodiment of an electric lighting device900, in which the first end 909 of the support member 908 has a roundedprojection and the hollow interior portion 916 of the flame element 910has a flat upper portion at which the projection of the first end 909contacts forming a pivot point. With respect to the remaining numeralsin each of FIGS. 9A-9B, the same considerations for like components withlike numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

Thus, as described above, the first end of the support member can havevarying shapes that correspond with an upper portion of the hollowinterior portion of the flame element to thereby form a pivot pointabout which the flame element can rotate. The embodiments shown in FIGS.1 and 2, for example, can therefore be modified with one or more of thecomponents illustrated in FIGS. 5A-9B without departing from the scopeof invention.

As shown in FIGS. 10A-10B, the support member 1008 can further includeone or more arms or projections 1040 that are flexible in a firstdirection but not in a second direction opposite that of the firstdirection. For example, as shown in FIG. 10B, the projections 1040 areflexible in a first direction that is downward and toward the supportmember 1008. In this manner, the support member 1008 and itsprojection(s) 1040 can be inserted into the hollow interior portion 1016of the flame element 1010. As the projections 1040 are inserted into thenarrower mouth of the hollow portion 1016, the projections 1040 arecaused to fold inwardly toward the support member 1008. Once the supportmember 1008 is fully inserted into the hollow interior portion 1016, theprojection(s) 1040 unfold as shown in FIG. 10B. This helps preventunintentional or undesired removal of the flame element 1010 from thesupport member 1008, as an attempt to pull the flame element 1010 fromthe support member 1008 will be prevented by the projection(s) 1040.

As shown in FIG. 10B, the hollow interior portion 1016 can have avarying diameter that is narrower at the mouth or outlet at the bottomof the flame element 1010, and wider toward the middle or central areaof the flame element 1010. While the diameter could have a taper, it ispreferred that there is an abrupt change in diameter 1041 from narrow towide along the height of the flame element 1010 to help prevent removalof the flame element 1010 from the support member 1008. With respect tothe remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 10A-10B, the same considerationsfor like components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate another embodiment of a device 1100, in whichthe support member 1108 includes one or more arms or projections 1140.Contrary to the flame element. 1010 in FIGS. 10A-10B, flame element 1110comprises a hollow interior portion 1116 with a constant diameter whenmanufactured. To vary the diameter of the hollow interior portion 1116,a plug or insert 1142 is inserted into the hollow interior portion 1116after manufacture. In some contemplated embodiments, the plug 1142 caninclude one or more magnets and be composed of a plastic or othernon-ferrous material. However, it is also contemplated that the plugitself could be ferrous eliminating the need for separate magnets.Finally, when choosing the material for plug 1142, a heavier weightmaterial could be used to lower the center of gravity of the flameelement 1110 to below that of the pivot point for example.

Similar to that shown in FIGS. 10A-10B, support member 1108 can furtherinclude one or more arms or projections 1140 that are flexible in afirst direction but not in a second direction opposite that of the firstdirection. For example, as shown in FIG. 11B, the projections 1140 areflexible in a first direction that is downward and toward the supportmember 1108. In this manner, the support member 1108 and itsprojection(s) 1140 can be inserted into the hollow interior portion 1116of the flame element 1110. As the projections 1140 are inserted into thenarrower mouth defined by plug 1142, the projections 1140 are caused tofold inwardly toward the support member 1108. Once the support member1108 is fully inserted into the hollow interior portion 1116, theprojection(s) 1140 unfold as shown in FIG. 11B. This helps preventunintentional or undesired removal of the flame element 1110 from thesupport member 1108, as an attempt to pull the flame element 1110 fromthe support member 1108 will be prevented by the projection(s) 1140 andupper surface 1141 of plug 1142. With respect to the remaining numeralsin each of FIGS. 11A-11B, the same considerations for like componentswith like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate another embodiment of a device 1200 similar tothat shown in FIGS. 11A-11B, except that the plug 1242 has a taperedupper surface 1241. As discussed above, plug 1242 could be configured toreceive one or more magnets and be composed of a plastic or othernon-ferrous material. However, it is also contemplated that the plugitself could comprise a ferrous material eliminating the need forseparate magnets. Finally, when choosing the material for plug 1242, aheavier weight material could be used to lower the center of gravity ofthe flame element 1210 to below that of the pivot point for example.With respect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 12A-12B, thesame considerations for like components with like numerals of FIGS. 1and 12B apply.

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate another embodiment of a device 1300, in whichthe support member 1308 includes one or more arms or projections 1340.Contrary to the flame element 1010 in FIGS. 10A-10B, flame element 1310comprises a hollow interior portion 1316 with a constant diameter whenmanufactured, although a taper diameter or other varying diameter couldbe used. To help prevent removal of the flame element 1310 from thesupport member 1308, a pin 1344 can be inserted or pressed through theflame element 1310 that interacts with projection 1340 to prevent flameelement 1310 from falling from or otherwise be removed from the supportmember 1308. It is contemplated that the pin 1344 could be molded withthe flame element 1310 at manufacture or inserted after the fact.

Where the pin 1344 is inserted prior to the flame element 1310 beinginserted on to the support member 1310, it is contemplated that the oneor more arms or projections 1340 are flexible only in one direction toflex when the flame element is being inserted on to the support member1308, but inhibit the flame element 1310 being removed from the supportmember 1308 due to the overlap between the projection 1340 and the uppersurface 1341 of pin 1344. It is also contemplated that the pin 1344could be inserted into the flame element 1310 after the flame element1310 is positioned on the support member 1308. In such embodiments, theprojection 1340 could be rigid. With respect to the remaining numeralsin each of FIGS. 13A-13B, the same considerations for like componentswith like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate another embodiment of a device 1400, in whichthe flame element 1410 comprises a first piece 1430 and a second piece1432 that couple together to form the flame element 1410. It iscontemplated that the pieces could be secured to one another by anycommercially suitable fastener including for example a glue or otheradhesive, a snap fit, and so forth. One or both of pieces 1430, 1432could be configured to receive a magnet or, alternatively, comprise aferrous material in at least a portion of the piece.

Device 1400 further includes a support member 1408 having one or morearms or projections 1440 that extend outwardly from the support member1408. The slant or tilt of the projections 1440 relative to the supportmember 1408 will partly depend on the desired range of movement of theflame element 1410. Preferably, the first and second pieces 1430, 1432are coupled to one another about the support member 1408 to therebysecure the flame element 1410 to the support member 1408. Once securedabout the support member 1408, removal of the flame element is inhibiteddue to the overlap of the projection(s) 1440 with the upper surface 1447of the first piece and the upper surface 1441 of the second piece. Inaddition, the projection(s) 1440 are preferably configured either to berigid, or to only flex in a first direction that is toward the supportmember 1408, such as described above. With respect to the remainingnumerals in each of FIGS. 14A-14B, the same considerations for likecomponents with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

Similar to FIGS. 14A-14B, FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate another embodiment ofa device 1500 having a flame element defined by a first piece 1530 and asecond piece 1532 that couple to one another. As shown in FIG. 15A, thefirst piece 1530 can include one or more projections 1550 and preferablyat least two projections, while the second piece 1532 can include asimilar number of indentations 1552 that are sized and dimensioned toeach receive a projection 1550. In some embodiments, the projections1550 can simply be friction fit into the indentations 1552, while inother embodiments, an adhesive or other fastener could be used to securethe first and second pieces 1530, 1532 together.

Preferably, the pieces 1530, 1532 are secured together about the supportmember 1508 to prevent removal of the flame element 1510 from thesupport member 1508 without first separating the first and second pieces1530, 1532. As shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, the support member 1508 can havea first end 1509 having a spherical surface that corresponds with aspherical interior portion 1516 of the flame element 1510. Thisadvantageously allows the flame element 1510 to rotate about the firstend 1509 with the rotation limited when the lower portion of the flameelement 1510 contacts the support member 1508. With respect to theremaining numerals in each of FIGS. 15A-15B, the same considerations forlike components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate a flame element 1610 similar to that shown inFIGS. 15A-15B, where the flame element 1610 comprises magnets 1612 at alower portion. With respect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS.16A-16C, the same considerations for like components with like numeralsof FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 17A-17C illustrate another embodiment of a flame element 1710having a hollow interior portion 1716 with its upper portion having arecessed area or indentation 1717 where a first end of a support membercan rest to form a pivot point for the flame element 1710. With respectto the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 17A-17C, the sameconsiderations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 18A-18C illustrate another embodiment of a flame element 1810having a hollow interior portion 1816 disposed on a backside of theflame element 1810 that is opposite the side that defines the face 1861of the flame element 1810 on to which light is emitted. The hollowinterior portion is defined by a pocket 1860 that can be integral withthe flame element 1810 (e.g., molded during manufacture of the flameelement) or separately attached. Because the pocket 1860 is located on abackside of the flame element 1810, it is generally hidden from viewwhen the lighting device is viewed from the front. With respect to theremaining numerals in each of FIGS. 18A-18C, the same considerations forlike components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate another embodiment of a flame element 1910having a hollow interior portion 1916 disposed on a backside of theflame element 1910 that is opposite the side that defines the face 1961of the flame element 1910 on to which light is emitted. The hollowinterior portion is defined by a pocket 1960 that can be integral withthe flame element 1910 (e.g., molded during manufacture of the flameelement) or separately attached. Because the pocket 1960 is located on abackside of the flame element 1910, it is generally hidden from viewwhen the lighting device is viewed from the front. With respect to theremaining numerals in each of FIGS. 19A-19C, the same considerations forlike components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 20A-20C illustrate another embodiment of a flame element 2010having a hollow interior portion 2016 in its lower portion with aprojection 2018 extending downwardly from the roof or upper surface ofthe interior portion 2016. The projection is preferably configured torest within a recessed area or indentation 2011 of a first end 2009 of asupport member 2008. As shown in FIG. 20C, the relative configuration ofthe projection 2018 and indentation 2011 allow for up to 20 degreemovement of the flame element from a fully uptight position. Because ofthe spherical nature of the projection 2018 and first end 2009, theflame element can pivot 360 degrees about the first end 2009. Withrespect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 20A-20C, the sameconsiderations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 21A-21C illustrate another embodiment of an electric lightingdevice 2100 having an outer housing with an upper surface 2104. Asupport member 2108 extends upwardly from the upper surface 2104, andpreferably originates from a recessed area or valley of the uppersurface 2104. The support member 2108 is preferably embedded or moldedinto the upper surface 2104 during manufacture of the housing but canotherwise be coupled to the upper surface 2104.

The support member 2108 can further include a ring that is preferablyclipped on or otherwise attached to the support member 2108 to securethe flame element 2110 to the support member 2108.

Flame element 2110 can further include a weight 2119 coupled to thebottom portion of the flame element 2110 that advantageously lowers thecenter of gravity 2101 of the flame element 2110 to below the pivotpoint. It is contemplated that the weight 2119 can be molded or embeddedinto the flame element 2110 during manufacture or coupled to the flameelement 2110 afterwards. Where the weight 2119 is coupled to the flameelement 2110 after manufacture, it is contemplated that the weight 2119could be first inserted on the support member 2108, followed by the ring2160, then the flame element 2110, after which the flame element 2110and weight 2119 can be coupled to one another. Flame element 2110 orweight 2119 can include a projection 2121 to limit movement of the flameelement 2110 about the support member 2108. With respect to theremaining numerals in each of FIGS. 21A-21C, the same considerations forlike components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate another embodiment of an electric lightingdevice 2200 having an outer housing with an upper surface 2204. Asupport member 2208 extends upwardly from the upper surface 2204, andpreferably originates from a recessed area or valley 2203 of the uppersurface 2204. The support member 2208 is preferably embedded or moldedinto the upper surface 2204 during manufacture of the housing but canotherwise be coupled to the upper surface 2204.

Device has a flame element 2210 having a tapered lower portion thatforms a rim 2217 extending horizontally from the lower portion, suchthat the run 2217 is disposed within the valley 2233. The rim 2217advantageously covers the weight 2219 and support member 2208, such thatneither can be viewed when the flame element 2210 is coupled to thesupport member 2208. Preferably, a color of the rim 2217 is chosen tomatch or closely match a color of the upper surface 2204, such that theupper surface 2204 may appear contiguous with the rim 2217 when viewedfrom a distance.

Flame element 2210 can further include a weight 2219 coupled to thebottom portion of the flame element 2210 that advantageously lowers thecenter of gravity 2201 of the flame element 2210 to below the pivotpoint. It is contemplated that the weight 2219 can be molded or embeddedinto the flame element 2210 during manufacture or coupled to the flameelement 2210 afterwards. Where the weight 2219 is coupled to the flameelement 2210 after manufacture, it is contemplated that the weight 2219could be first inserted on the support member 2208, followed by the ring2260 then the flame element 2210, after which the flame element 2210 andweight 2219 can be coupled to one another.

The support member 2208 can further include a ring that is preferablyclipped on or otherwise attached to the support member 2208 to securethe flame element 2210 to the support member 2208. With respect to theremaining numerals in each of FIGS. 22A-22B, the same considerations forlike components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 23A-23B illustrate another embodiment of an electric lightingdevice 2300 similar to that shown in FIGS. 22A-22B, except that theweight 2319 comprises a downward projection 2318 that is configured torest within a recessed area or indentation of the first end 2309 of thesupport member 2308. With respect to the remaining numerals in each ofFIGS. 23A-23B, the same considerations for like components with likenumerals of FIGS. 22A-22B apply.

FIGS. 24A-24B illustrate another embodiment of an electric lightingdevice 2400 having an outer housing with an upper surface 2404. Asupport member 2408 extends upwardly from the upper surface 2404, andpreferably originates from a recessed area or valley of the uppersurface 2404. The support member 2408 is preferably embedded or moldedinto the upper surface 2404 during manufacture of the housing but canotherwise be coupled to the upper surface 2404.

Device can include a flame element 2410 having an inwardly tapered lowerportion with a weight 2419 coupled to the bottom or lower portion.Weight 2419 advantageously lowers the center of gravity 2401 of theflame element 2410 to below the pivot point. It is contemplated that theweight 2419 can be molded or embedded into the flame element 2410 duringmanufacture or coupled to the flame element 2410 afterwards.

The support member 2408 terminates at a first end 2409 having a taperedsurface, such that a bottom portion of the first end 2409 has a widththat is greater than the lower portion of the support member 2408.Because a width of the bottom portion of the first end 2409 overlapswith the weight 2419, removal of the flame element 2410 form the supportmember 2408 is inhibited. With respect to the remaining numerals in eachof FIGS. 24A-24B, the same considerations for like components with likenumerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 25-25B illustrate one embodiment of a housing 2502 of an electriclighting device 2500 having an upper surface 2504 coupled to a sidewall2506. Device 2500 includes a support member 2508 that is molded as onepiece with the housing 2502, and that extends upwardly from an uppersurface 2504 of the housing 2502.

To strengthen the support member 2608 and thereby help prevent snappingor breaking, a stiffener 2670 can be molded within the upper surface2604 and the support member 2608, as shown in FIGS. 26A-26B. Withrespect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 26A-26B, the sameconsiderations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 25B apply.

Alternatively as shown in FIGS. 27A-27B, a stiffener 2772 can be addedexternally to the support member 2708 to help prevent breaking or otherdamage to the support member 2708. With respect to the remainingnumerals in each of FIGS. 27A-27B, the same considerations for likecomponents with like numerals of FIG. 25B apply.

As shown in FIGS. 28A-28B, the stiffener 2872 can be added externally tothe support member 2808 and include inward projections that mate withnotches on the support member 2808 to thereby snap the stiffener 2872 onto the support member 2808. With respect to the remaining numerals ineach of FIGS. 28A-28B, the same considerations for like components withlike numerals of FIG. 25B apply.

For further strengthening of the support member 2908, a first stiffener2970 can be embedded into the support member 2908 and upper surface2904, while a second stiffener 2972 can be attached to an externalsurface of the support member 2908, as shown in FIGS. 29A-29B. Withrespect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 29A-29B, the sameconsiderations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 25B apply.

FIGS. 30A-30C illustrate how added weight whether by one or more magnetsor a separate weight 3014 can affect the center of gravity 3001 of theflame element 3010 relative to the pivot point 3003.

FIG. 31 illustrates one embodiment of a flame element 3110 having adiameter of 0.12 inches (3.048 mm) at the aperture into which a supportmember 3108 is inserted. This diameter advantageously allows the flameelement to rotate 15 degrees with a pivot point that is 0.15 inches(3.81 mm) above the aperture.

FIGS. 32A-32B illustrates the use of custom-shaped magnets 3212 that canbe coupled to or embedded within the flame element 3210. Using aprecisely-shaped magnet allows for the lower portion of the flameelement 3210 to be tapered inwardly, while also lowering the center ofgravity 3201 of the flame element 3210 to below the pivot point. Withrespect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 32A-32B, the sameconsiderations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 33A-33B illustrate the use of a custom-shaped ring magnet 3312.With respect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 33A-33B, thesame considerations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 1apply.

FIGS. 34A-34B illustrate the use of a different custom-shaped ringmagnet 3412 having an internal projection 3413 that helps to preventremoval of a support member from the flame element once inserted. Withrespect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 34A-34B, the sameconsiderations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 35A-35B illustrate the use of a different custom-shaped ringmagnet 3512. With respect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS.35A-35B, the same considerations for like components with like numeralsof FIG. 1 apply.

FIGS. 36A-36C depict another embodiment of an electric lighting device3600 having a housing 3602 with an upper surface 3604. A flame element3610 can be supported above the upper surface 3604 via a fastener 3608that extends through the upper surface 3604, as shown in FIG. 36C. Theflame element 3610 can also include a ring-shaped magnet 3612. Withrespect to the remaining numerals in each of FIGS. 36A-36C, the sameconsiderations for like components with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

FIG. 37 depicts one embodiment of a flame element 3710 for an electriclighting device having four magnets 3712 disposed at a lower portion ofthe flame element 3710 about an aperture that leads into a hollowinterior portion 3716. With respect to the remaining numerals in FIG.37, the same considerations for like components with like numerals ofFIG. 1 apply.

FIG. 38 depicts another embodiment of a flame element 3810 for anelectric lighting device having a single magnet 3812 disposed on oneside of the flame element 3810 adjacent to an aperture that leads into ahollow interior portion 3816. With respect to the remaining numerals inFIG. 38, the same considerations for like components with like numeralsof FIG. 1 apply.

FIG. 39 shows another embodiment of an electric lighting device 3900. Alight source 3982 can be disposed within the candle housing 3902 andbeneath the support member 3908. In such embodiment, it is preferredthat the support member comprises an internal cavity or light pipe intowhich light from the light source 3982 can be emitted. Thisadvantageously allows, for example, light to pass through the supportmember 3908 to illuminate the flame element 3910 from within.Alternatively or additionally, light from the light source 3982 can beused to create a glowing ember effect for the support member 3908, whichcould simulate a glowing wick, for example. With respect to theremaining numerals in FIG. 39, the same considerations for likecomponents with like numerals of FIG. 1 apply.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow,the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the descriptionherein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise.

Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth hereinshould be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints, andopen-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commerciallypractical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered asinclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates thecontrary.

The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve asa shorthand method of referring individually to each separate valuefalling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, eachindividual value with a range is incorporated into the specification asif it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein canbe performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein orotherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and allexamples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respectto certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminatethe invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of theinvention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should beconstrued as indicating any non-claimed element essential to thepractice of the invention.

Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the inventiondisclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each groupmember can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combinationwith other members of the group or other elements found herein. One ormore members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group forreasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion ordeletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the groupas modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markushgroups used in the appended claims.

As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term“coupled to” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which twoelements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirectcoupling (in which at least one additional element is located betweenthe two elements). Therefore, the terms “coupled to” and “coupled with”are used synonymously.

It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many moremodifications besides those already described are possible withoutdeparting from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subjectmatter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of theappended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification andthe claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possiblemanner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises”and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements,components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that thereferenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized,or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are notexpressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at leastone of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C . . . andN, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from thegroup, not A plus N. or B plus N, etc.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An electric lighting device, comprising: acandle body having sidewalls, and an upper surface coupled to thesidewalls, defining an inner cavity of the candle body inside thesidewalls; a support member extending upwardly from the upper surfaceand terminating at a first end; a flame shaped element disposed outsideof the candle body, supported by the support member, said flame shapedelement having a bottom portion with a support surface adapted to pressagainst said first end of said support member; a firstmagnetic-attractable material on a first side of a bottom portion of theflame shaped element; a second magnetic-attractable material on a secondside of a bottom portion of the flame shaped element; where the firstmaterial and the second material are on opposite ends of the bottom ofthe flame shaped element symmetrically disposed relative to one another,wherein the support surface of the flame shaped element pivots on thefirst end of the support member; and an electromagnet configured togenerate an electromagnetic field that interacts with the first andsecond materials of the flame element to thereby cause the flame shapedelement to pivot.
 2. The electric lighting device of claim 1, whereinthe electromagnet is disposed within the candle body and beneath theupper surface.
 3. The electric lighting device of claim 1, wherein theelectromagnet is has a first part closer to the first material and has asecond part closer to the second material.
 4. The electric lightingdevice of claim 1, wherein the electromagnet concentrically surroundsthe bottom portion of the flame shaped element.
 5. The electric lightingdevice of claim 1, further comprising a light source positioned toproduce light on to the flame element.
 6. The electric lighting deviceof claim 5, wherein the light source is disposed entirely within thecandle body and emits said light via an aperture in the upper surface.7. The electric lighting device of claim 1, wherein the flame elementhas inner surfaces defining a hollow interior portion between the firstside of the bottom portion of the flame shaped element and the secondside of the bottom portion of the flame shaped element, and between thefirst and second material.
 8. The electric lighting device of claim 7,wherein the first end of the support member has a recess, and the flameelement has a projection, inside the hollow interior portion, thatextends downwardly, and wherein the projection is configured to rest onthe recess.
 9. The electric lighting device of claim 1, furthercomprising a retaining structure that retains the flame element relativeto the support member, while allowing the flame element to pivotrelative to the support member.
 10. The electric lighting device as inclaim 9, wherein the retaining structure includes a flexible extension,attached to the support, that presses against inner surfaces of theflame element to hold the inner surfaces of the flame element fromcoming off of the support.
 11. The electric lighting device as in claim9, wherein the retaining structure includes an insert that is insertedinto the inner surfaces of the flame element after the flame element isinserted onto the support.
 12. The electric lighting device of claim 5,wherein the light source is disposed entirely within the candle body andemits said light via a light pipe configured to direct light from thelight source through the support member.
 13. An electric lightingdevice, comprising: a candle body having sidewalls, and an upper surfacecoupled to the sidewalls, defining an inner cavity of the candle bodyinside the sidewalls; a support member extending upwardly from the uppersurface and terminating at a first end, a flame shaped element disposedoutside of the candle body, supported by the support member, said flameshaped element having a bottom portion with a support surface adapted topress against said first end of said support member; at least onemagnetic-attractable material attached to the flame shaped element;wherein the support surface of the flame shaped element pivots on thefirst end of the support member and the flame shape element is retainedby a retaining structure against being removed completely from the firstend of the support member; and an electromagnet configured to generatean electromagnetic field that interacts with the at least onemagnetic-attractable material to cause the flame shaped element topivot.
 14. The device as in claim 13, wherein the at least onemagnetic-attractable material includes a first magnetic-attractablematerial on a first side of a bottom portion of the flame shapedelement; a second magnetic-attractable material on a second side of abottom portion of the flame shaped element; where the first material andthe second material are on opposite ends of the bottom of the flameshaped element symmetrically disposed relative to one another.
 15. Theelectric lighting device of claim 13, wherein the electromagnetconcentrically surrounds the bottom portion of the flame shaped element.16. The electric lighting device of claim 13, further comprising a lightsource positioned to produce light on to the flame element.
 17. Theelectric lighting device of claim 16, wherein the light source isdisposed entirely within the candle body, and the candle body is sealed.18. The device as in claim 17, wherein the light source emits said lightvia an aperture in the upper surface.
 19. The device as in claim 17,wherein the light source emits said light via an aperture in the uppersurface.
 20. The electric lighting device of claim 13, wherein the flameshaped element includes inner surfaces defining a hollow interiorportion and the retaining structure includes a flexible extension arm,attached to the support, that presses against inner surfaces of theflame element to hold the inner surfaces of the flame element fromcoming off of the support.
 21. The electric lighting device as in claim13, wherein the flame shaped element includes inner surfaces defining ahollow interior portion and the retaining structure includes an insertthat is inserted into the inner surfaces of the flame element after theflame element is inserted onto the support.